6 Of The Quietest New Zealand Towns

Despite welcoming three million overseas visitors each year (that’s nearly one tourist for every two citizens), New Zealand never really feels busy. And for travelers who enjoy a destination on the quieter side, there are enough small destinations across Aotearoa (its Maori name) to ensure you’re never too far away from a tranquil escape.

While they’re not usually uppermost on most people’s travel itineraries, these six Kiwi towns each offer an authentic slow‑travel experience set against stunning landscapes ranging from wild West Coast beaches to scenic Wairarapa plains. And while small, these communities are anything but dull, proving that travelers can experience the very best that New Zealand has to offer, without the crowds.

Hokitika, West Coast, South Island

Once a busy gold‑rush port, Hokitika is now a relaxed seaside town that’s known for its wide beaches and scenic setting. Just a 30-minute coastal drive from the larger town of Greymouth to the north, there are plenty of fun things to do here that typically don’t involve crowds. Quiet highlights include the Hokitika Museum, located in a former Carnegie library built in 1908 and featuring fascinating displays on West Coast life.

An easy drive 30‑minutes inland will take you to the Hokitika Gorge, where a short where a short hike will take you to a cool suspension bridge over the turquoise water of the Hokitika River. A second pedestrian bridge is located upstream and is often overlooked by tourists, providing a wonderful spot for a little peace and quiet while you admire the views. For a relaxing overnight stay, the 4-star Beachfront Hotel Hokitika features ocean‑view rooms over the Tasman Sea, with blackout curtains to ensure maximum privacy and relaxation.

Oamaru, Otago, South Island

Located on the other side of the South Island and a 3.5-hour drive southwest of Christchurch, Oamaru is certainly pretty. With elegant Victorian-era limestone façades lining its downtown, plenty of green space, and a picturesque working harbor on Friendly Bay, Oamaru’s peaceful charm has led to its becoming the place to go in New Zealand for cosplay enthusiasts. Whether you dress up for the Steampunk NZ Festival in late May or simply want to stroll dressed to the nines, head to the town’s Victorian Precinct for a walk along what’s rated as the best historic district in the country.

Another big draw is the Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony. Located to the south of the Oamaru Breakwater, here you can watch the world’s smallest penguin species toddle ashore after a day at sea. Best of all, you get to sit in the comfort of a specially constructed grandstand to observe what’s definitely a bucket list item. For a genteel and relaxing overnight stay, check into the Pen‑y‑bryn Lodge, built in 1889 and one of the country’s largest timber-framed buildings.

Ōpōtiki, Bay of Plenty, North Island

Ōpōtiki is a quiet community located on the Bay of Plenty, just two hours northwest of Gisborne. Sandwiched between the Waioeka and Otara Rivers, whether you’re day tripping from “Gizzy” or here for a night or two, time it so you can participate in the popular Ōpōtiki Rodeo. Held in April, the event attracts Kiwi cowboys to the Ōpōtiki Rodeo Grounds for skill-testing riding events, fun and games, as well as food and drink experiences. Also worth checking out, the Ōpōtiki Lions Club Market is held on the second Saturday of each month and is a great opportunity to pick up some local crafts and produce.

While these events do see the town get a little busier than usual, you’ll never have to beat off the crowds at the Ōpōtiki District Museum, where you can learn more about the region’s early history. For fans of two-wheeled transport, the 91-kilometre (56-mile) Motu Trails network begins on Church Street and passes through native forests and scenic coastal dunes. And for a relaxing overnight stay, book a beachfront cabin at Tasman Holiday Parks - Ohiwa, one of the best places to stay in Ōpōtiki for those seeking some quiet time.

Geraldine, Canterbury, South Island

Back on the South Island, Geraldine is set on the Inland Scenic Route 72 between Christchurch and Tekapo. However, Geraldine definitely feels more village-vibe than highway town, with speed limits dropping to a crawl along its pretty tree‑lined main street. As for attractions, check out the Geraldine Vintage Car & Machinery Club Museum. Vintage‑vehicle enthusiast or not, you can easily spend a few hours getting lost among the museum’s collection of rarities, classic roadsters, and tractors.

Enjoy a good walk while getting to enjoy some wildlife spotting? Then include the Talbot Forest Scenic Reserve on your itinerary for the chance to get in some lizard‑spotting while enjoying a peaceful loop hike. Book a room at the highly rated ASURE Scenic Route Motor Lodge, as you’ll definitely want to stick around after dark. Geraldine’s location on the edge of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark‑Sky Reserve, the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest dark sky reserve, provides an excellent excuse to get in some stargazing.

Murchison, Tasman, South Island

Home to just 520 people, how could Murchison be anything other than quiet? Especially popular among kayakers and known as the “four‑river plain”, Murchison sits in a mountainous region where the Buller, Matakitaki, Mangles, and Matiri Rivers converge, ensuring no end of exciting white water to tackle. It’s also popular among the hiking community, with the scenic Buller Gorge Swingbridge being a must-trek destination. New Zealand’s longest such structure, this 110 meter (360 ft) long structure is the centerpiece of the Buller Gorge Swingbridge Adventure and Heritage Park. Other fun things to do include rainforest trails, ziplining, and (not-so quiet!) jet‑boat rides.

In town events worth considering include February’s Murcheson A&P Show, an agricultural fair with equestrian events, log lifts, and wood‑chopping competitions. For a relaxing overnighter, book the Murchison Lodge for its timber‑lined guest rooms, communal fireside seating, and garden, all of it in a picturesque riverside setting.

Featherston, Wairarapa, North Island

Located near the southern tip of the North Island, Featherston is only a one‑hour train ride from Wellington, the country’s capital. It’s a great escape for those seeking a little less bustle, with uncluttered streets leading past charming boutique shops, cafés… and seven bookstores (a substantial number given the town’s population is under 3,000). A former railway town, Featherston has successfully rebranded itself as New Zealand’s “Booktown,” something it celebrates every May at the Karukatea Booktown Festival. This popular event brings fans of literature and writers to participate in book signings, workshops, and celebrations of art of storytelling.

You’ll also want to dive a little deeper into Featherston’s railway history, and the Fell Locomotive Museum is the perfect place to do so. Home to the world’s last 0‑4‑0T Fell engine (built in 1877), you’ll learn how this remarkable machine was once used to tackle the steep Rimutaka Incline for 77 years before being retired. Accommodation choices are plentiful, with the restored Royal Hotel offering Victorian-era guestrooms above a quiet bar, all just a few steps from town’s indie bookshops.

The Final Word 

Given its size in comparison to its population (it’s the size of Britain but with only a tenth of the population), New Zealand offers endless way to get away from the crowds. The best way to experience a laidback, serene Kiwi adventure is undoubtedly to visit one of its peaceful small towns (more than one if you can swing it). Featuring small populations and stunning landscapes, these six quiet towns in New Zealand are perfect destinations to visit if you’re seeking an authentic taste of Aotearoa.